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Voiding cystourethrogram - All Information

Alternative Names

Cystourethrogram - voiding

Definition of Voiding cystourethrogram:

A voiding cystourethrogram is an x-ray examination of the bladder and urethra that is performed while the bladder is emptying.

How the test is performed:

The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in a health care provider's office by an x-ray technician.

You will lie on your back on the x-ray table. A thin, flexible tube called a catheter will be gently inserted into the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body), and passed into the bladder.

Contrast dye flows through the catheter into the bladder. This dye helps the bladder show up better on x-ray images.

The x-rays are taken from various angles while the bladder is full of contrast dye. The catheter is removed so that you can urinate. Images are taken while your empty your bladder.

How to prepare for the test:

You must sign a consent form. You will be given a gown to wear.

Remove all jewelry before the test. Inform the health care provider if you are:

  • Allergic to any medications
  • Allergic to x-ray contrast material
  • Pregnant

How the test will feel:

You may feel some discomfort when the catheter is placed and while your bladder is full.

Why the test is performed:

This test is commonly done to diagnose the cause of urinary tract infections, particularly in those who have repeated infections. It is also used to diagnose and evaluate:

  • Abnormal bladder emptying
  • Present at birth (congenital) problems with the bladder or urethras
  • Urethral stricture (in males)

Normal Values:

The bladder and urethra will be normal in size and function.

What abnormal results mean:

Abnormal results may indicate the following:

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

What the risks are:

You may have some discomfort when urinating after this test, because of irritation from the catheter.

You may have bladder spasms after this test, which may be a sign of an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. Contact your health care provider if bothersome bladder spasms occur.

  • Reviewed last on: 10/2/2008
  • Louis S. Liou, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Urology, Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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